Xenical

Side effects that usually occur after the first year of treatment with Xenical include: depression, leg pain, swollen feet, and tendonitis.

Why should Xenical not be prescribed?

Do not take Xenical if you suffer from "chronic malabsorption syndrome"--a condition that prevents nutrients from passing from your stomach into your bloodstream--or from cholestasis, a blockage in the supply of bile needed for digestion. You'll also need to avoid Xenical if it gives you an allergic reaction.

Special warnings about Xenical

Weight loss begins within 2 weeks and continues for 6 to 12 months. The effect of using Xenical for more than 2 years is still unknown.

Side effects such as diarrhea and abdominal pain may be worse if you continue eating a high fat diet or even take a high-fat meal. Limit your fat intake.

Your doctor will test your thyroid function before starting you on Xenical to make sure that your weight problem is not due to an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism). Xenical is not an appropriate remedy for this problem.

Xenical increases the likelihood of kidney stones. Use it with caution if you have a history of this problem.

If you have diabetes, weight-loss is likely to reduce your blood sugar levels. If you're taking an oral diabetes medication or insulin, your dose may have to be reduced.

Note that the safety and efficacy of this drug in children younger than 12 years old have not been established.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Xenical

If Xenical is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Xenical with the following:

Cyclosporine (Neoral and Sandimmune)
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Xenical during pregnancy have not been adequately studied and the drug is not recommended for pregnant women. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

It is not known whether Xenical appears in breast milk. Do not take it while breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS AND CHILDREN 12 YEARS AND OLDER

The recommended dose is one 120-milligram capsule 3 times daily with each main meal containing fat.

Overdosage

The results of a massive overdose of Xenical are unknown, although the drug seems relatively harmless. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention.